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Urban Diner II
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Brunch
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
16 reviews for Urban Diner II
16 reviews in English
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Review from Mike G.
Edmonton, AB
3/19/2012 1 photo
I have been here a few times. Mostly out of convenience as I live close by.
I came here once a while back and ordered the fish and chips. I couldn't have been more disappointed. The fish honestly tasted like it came out the frozen section of a supermarket.
I recently came here on a Friday night. Plenty of tables were available. The staff was courteous, helpful and even a little funny. However the food was mediocre at best. I had the chicken burger with sweet potato fries. While the chicken was juicy it wasn't very flavourful as it was seemingly boiled. The rest of the toppings were fresh but lacked any bold flavour. The sweet potato fries were actually pretty good. Everything was reasonably priced.
I would go back again, but I'm not in a hurry.
Sincerely,
Somewhat Satisfied. -
Review from Sarah W.
2/25/2012
It's been a long time since I've had a terrible waiter experience, but I (unfortunately) had a recent encounter at Urban Diner.
Before I jump all over that, let me say - the food was good. I had the Mac 'N Cheese - let me say that I consider myself a bit of a homemade mac fantatic - I've had it in Seattle, I've had it in Vancouver, I've had it at various locations all over Edmonton and it is a consistent staple in my kitchen. And Urban Diner didn't disappoint me. It was creamy, rich-but-not-too-rich, cheesy and came in a HUGE portion. I laughed, I cried... it was wonderful. But anyway, let me get to the main point of my review.
The service that I had was absolutely terrible. We came at a relatively slow point in the night with just a few tables in the restaurant. The server seated us down and disappeared for awhile, then showed up to take our order, didn't write it down and had to come back to take it again. The food took awhile (which is no big deal, that happens) but we didn't see our server until it came, which meant empty water glasses, empty drink glasses, and just a general thirstiness happening. He dropped the food off, disappeared again and we didn't really see him until we actively hunted him down for the cheque. It was pretty bad. He didn't even refill the water glasses after dropping off our food - luckily one of his coworkers dropped by to do it (and everyone else's tables as well). And what was the worst of it was that he seemed to KNOW he was doing badly, but didn't try to fix it. Infact, he seemed to dodge our table (actively walking around to the other empty side of the restaurant) to avoid us. It would have been a lot more respectable for him to just pass by and say "I'll bring the water by in a second, sorry for the wait." There's something very offputting about being actively ignored.
I suspect that this experience was just due to an inexperienced or new staff member, but it did seriously put a damper on an otherwise great diner experience. The diner does not *feel* like a diner. It's very modern and almost upscale. Great, hip date location. But I mean, as good as the mac and cheese was....crappy service is crappy service. Better luck next time. -
Review from Peggy L.
1/24/2012 3 Check-ins Here
I came here once when it first opened and was slightly underwhelmed. It seems things have changed though, because my party and I were very happy with our meals when we went last month.
I had the beef brisket sandwich, and the other two members of my party ordered the salmon burger and the grilled chicken burger. My sandwich was huge, and very satisfying. The brisket was really tender, and the sauerkraut added a nice acidic touch. The salmon burger featured a large piece of salmon and a refreshing mango slaw that paired perfectly, and the grilled chicken burger was similarly delicious.
My favourite part of Urban Diner, however, is the Banoffee Pie. I'm really not a pie person, but this homely number won me over in just a bite. I wish I could describe it, but there are no words! We have also tried the chocolate cake, but it was a bit too sweet for me. Their desserts are quite pricey, a slice of pie and one of cake put the bill at $17.00, but I think the pie is worth every penny.
I love how spacious the dining room is, and the fair prices - they are on par with any chain restaurant, but for significantly better food. One downside is that I feel as though I'm always waiting for the waitress to come by for some reason or another. If not for that, this would be a five star review for sure.Listed in: Favourites!
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Review from Natalie C.
Halifax, NS
6/19/2011
I feel like this place is so ridiculously close to being right-on-the money.
It has a nice atmosphere, super friendly staff, a patio, good food and decent pricing.
However, it's sti got a few kinks to work out. Staff often seems to be flustered and not super knowledgable about their product. Their patio is in definite need of some citronella candles as well (so many pesky Mosquitos the last time I was there!!).
That being said these few mis-steps are not enough to keep me away from great diner food (love LOVE the Mac and cheese). Keep at it Urban Diner, you're SO close to hitting a home run! -
Review from Lasha T.
10/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
I would actually want to give this new location a 3.5. I really am not a fan of the inside space. It's just one big room with a ton of tables and hardly any room to walk. What I did love was their outdoor space mainly because it over looks 109th Street and the Garneau Theatre. It was fun to watch the people walk around the small trendy area.
I also LOVE this one dessert that they have their. That was the main purpose of my visit. It's this cheesecake ball that is covered in chocolate and nuts. BEST DESSERT ever. They don't have it all the time though so we called ahead to check. Make sure the inside is the white cheesecake and not the chocolate otherwise it tends to be overwhelming.
Such a great place to hang out on a Friday night for a drink and dessert. The rest of the menu is great too, very similar to the other Urban Diner, but I just really like this summer location. Beware that parking can be tricky though! -
Review from Jacqueline S.
Edmonton, AB
3/25/2011
I've been to this location a few times now, including once with a big group. They were accommodating and friendly, and I will likely go back, although mostly because this is the kind of place that will satisfy the pickiest eaters of the bunch, it's near campus, and it's got some free parking.
I've never managed to figure out why some people get so excited about this place. The food isn't bad by any means, but I just don't find it very interesting. Everything is just OK.
The one thing they seem to have going for them is a good beer menu. The atmosphere of the place doesn't make me want to hang out drinking beer for the evening, but if you're looking for a tasty pint to go with your mediocre entree, you're set.Listed in: Get out!
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Review from Abdullah E.
Edmonton, AB
3/3/2012
It's good food for the price. It's not great but it's good for a meal with friends.
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Review from Farees K.
1/29/2011
I went here last month with a friend and his family. The staff were very nice and accommodated 2 noisy kids and strollers without blinking an eye.
The beer selection was remarkably good and I know they are even planning beer tastings in the future.
Like so many restaurants in this area they just have bland food. I had the lamb and even poorly done lamb has some flavor, this was just boring. Deserts were obviously brought in and again were nothing memorable. -
Review from Aditya R.
12/7/2010 1 Check-in Here
I went here for dinner the other day and was surprised by how crowded it was. That's a great thing, since there are a lot of well established food joints around there (Sugar Bowl, Remedy, de Capo etc.). We got a table pretty soon since they have a lot of space at this location. I wish I could give the 109th street Urban diner a better rating, but it is strictly okay.
The ambience wasn't up to the standard I'd have expected, from having been to the 124th street branch a few times. It realy had a student-like ambience, which was understandable, mind you, but in particular lacked the modern décor and appearance that the menu seems to boast of. In fact, I believe the insides of the cafe are close to identical to the original establishment that was out there (a not-so-good Italian restaurant) ... maybe a few changes, but it certainly felt just like that place.
I had the angus burger which was good, no doubt and the fries that accompanied my order were also decent. I did get to try some coleslaw that a friend of mine ordered and to be honest, it was almost as if they served us sauerkraut instead of coleslaw - yes, it was sour, salty and hard to eat with the burger. Although, it was fresh, in the sense that the cabbage and carrots and what not were crisp to taste.
Given that I like the Urban Diner on the north side, I am willing to give this place a month or two to get some momentum going. However, with the disappointing ambience, I honestly don't expect it to equal the experience of visiting the urban diner on the north side. However, my review is limited to the dinner. Will have to try out the brunch one weekend - expect a re-yelp of it from me.Listed in: Garnishing Garneau
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Review from Melanie L.
Edmonton, AB
3/2/2011
The food? Pretty much what I was expecting. To the kitchen's credit, the eggs were cooked just as I'd asked them to be and while that may seem like a mundane comment, MANY places don't cook eggs properly. I also liked the way the potatoes were prepared - seasoned and cooked well (i.e. crisp on the outside and tender inside). A standard eggs benedict overall but well executed, as far as the description on the menu went.
The service? Overly chipper and grating - if I'd wanted the standard "And how is everything tasting so far?!" as the fork is moving to my mouth for the first bite, I would've gone to Denny's. The people in this neighbourhood don't need a pep talk each time the server comes by; they just want attentiveness and efficiency.
I've yet to visit during cask nights but I hear they bring in tasty brews for those so I will be back and pray the Aunt Delores-style service is reserved for brunch time. -
Review from Paula K.
12/19/2010
I have been a semi-regular visitor to the original Urban Diner on 124 street. I know how busy their Saturday brunch can be. I thought it would be less crowded at the new location, since there are at least two other brunch destinations within a few blocks.
I was wrong.
The restaurant, while much larger than the first, was packed. We got there just in time before a lineup for tables started at the door. The menu has the same excellent choices as on 124 Street. Our server was very perky and attentive.
We started with a cinnamon bun which was warmed and sliced across the middle (I am assuming this was because I told our server we would be sharing). It was a little too sweet and also filled with raisins - it would have been nice if that detail was on the menu as some people, like me, are not fond of them. It was served with a cream cheese and dried fruit spread which was tasty, but added yet more sweetness. I did not have much.
Both of us had the two eggs, any style. The eggs were served with two pieces of toast and a generous portion of diner potatoes. Crispy yet moist, and including a few sweet potato cubes thrown in here and there, these are likely the best hashbrowns I have had with a brunch. My scrambled eggs were delicious, and my friend's poached eggs were served exactly as ordered.
The main problem we found was the acoustics in the restaurant. The ceiling is very high and the sounds of people's voices were bouncing everywhere. I literally was finding myself having to shout in order to carry on a conversation, and forget about me being able to hear anything back.
I would definitely come here again for brunch if it was less crowded. I would also come here for lunch or supper if I was in the area, because I already know that I enjoy the food. Hopefully, I won't have to bring earplugs. -
Review from Brittany K.
Edmonton, AB
11/19/2010 1 Check-in Here
I enjoyed my first foray into the Urban Diner experience. Sunny yellow walls? Check. Super happy staff? Check! It was a long wait for the late lunch, and the disorganization of the place didn't help much, but I think that can be chalked up to the joint being totally brand-new.
It also took some time before the food arrived, but our server was apologetic enough about it, and was really very nice the entire meal. And the food itself was amazing!
Give the new Urban Diner a few weeks or so to sort itself out, and I promise you, it will be a delicious, organized meal out! -
Review from Jason L.
Edmonton, AB
Hey, I'm a fan. It's pretty much the great urban comfort food menu from the High Street location served up in Garneau, in walking distance from my building.
Yeah, they need to do some more renovations and decorating, bring more warm and intimacy to the space, and there are some "should have had a soft opening" problems. But since when does that sort of nonsense trump the food? C'mon, this is Edmonton, not Toronto. Substance over style any time, and the food is all substance.
It's all great diner pastries, breakfasts, sandwiches, soups, salads and "blue plate" meals. Some of my favourites are Split Pea and Ham soup (rub your tummy and salute the flag - Canadian wonder soup), Diner Mac & Cheese (with chicken apple sausage), the Meatloaf or Montecristo or Brisket sandwiches and the Diner poutine. Service is friendly, attentive and tries hard. What's not to like?
I really fell in love with this kind of food in Manhattan, where I think the unrelenting urban crush makes comfort food all the more appealing (places like EJ's and the Comfort Diner). So, grab a friend or two. No need to dress up, corduroy and cardigans, jeans and Ts are good enough. Worry about shaving tomorrow. Share some Mac & Cheese and Meatloaf; let it blow outside. Linger and chat over a cup of strong coffee and pie. Eat, laugh, live. -
Review from Liv V.
Edmonton, AB
8/25/2011
Decent, I suppose, but not "holycrapbesthingever". Like Urban Diner's original 124 street location, this location does a pretty solid brunch (with the stuffed French toast being the decadent star) but what is with their coffee? It is not very good and, considering the number of great coffee roasteries out there, I can't quite fathom why they aren't using a better bean. The atmosphere seems a bit cavernous to me and the acoustics are dreadful. Like I said, a good brunch, but the ambiance and coffee need to catch up for this place to be the whole package.
Listed in: The 30 Day Challenge
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Review from Emma W.
Edmonton, AB
11/19/2010
I decided to make a leap across the street from my local breakfast go to and try out the new second location of Urban Diner.
We arrived for brunch on Remembrance day with a bit of disappointment to discover that they were not serving brunch they did have 3 breakfast items on their lunch menu but it just wasn't the same..... mistake number one.
After tracking down our server we finally ordered a couple coffees, a ceaser and some waters. After our disinterested server finally took our food order she then promptly forgot about us and our empty glasses even though the coffee tasted burnt.... mistake number two.
We ordered a poutine to share ($8.00) which went down in a hurry as we were all starved and who doesn't inhale this fine Canadian decadency When my Fat Franks hot dog (6.95) complete with Cheddar cheese and bacon ($1.25 add on each) and ceaser salad ($2.00) my hot dog became a bit of an investment. Nobody can really go wrong with a Fat Franks dog but it wasn't worth the price when I could simply go down the street to Mountain Equipment co op and minus the salad enjoy the same meal. The salad was not worth the $2 up charge and I'm starting to get a little annoyed of restaurants up charging for the 'healthier' option especially when they only provide 3 leaves. My friend ordered an extra side of toast which came to a whopping $3 for a piece of rye bread toast which totalled mistake number 3.
By the end of the meal all 4 of us were ready to leave and not return until the service starts to match the price. I really did want to love this place as it is so close to our usually breakfast hot spot which usually has a wait of up to 20 minutes but unfortunately will just have to bare the wait. -
Review from Guy G.
Edmonton, AB
4/16/2011
Not too pleased with the restaurant. The food is good, albeit quite pricey, the waitresses are nice and efficient, but... I run with a group from the Running Room, just down the block, and every Sunday, we would make reservations for our group. There are about twenty of us of varying abilities who come in to eat within an hour of each other. As some leave others come in. We are good customers who order large and tip well. We do take up a larger table, but we do not dawdle, and leave when are meals are done. However, we were told by the owner that we were not welcome to have this arrangement, and we couldn't use the table for as long as we did. We spend at least 3 or 4 hundred dollars every Sunday, and were told we are not welcome. Interesting way to run a business.
